Well this fucking sucks.
In an apparent response to Sydney’s shifting regulatory climate, iconic bar and institution of the local music scene Newtown Social Club has announced it will shut its doors on April 23rd this year.
Despite being outside the lockout zone, their Facebook post would definitely seem to indicate the shithouse laws’ impact on Sydney’s nightlife played a part in their decision:
“Whilst the live music part of the business was a resounding success, the current regulatory climate in Sydney and the inherent challenges therein have made it unsustainable.”“We look forward to exploring new opportunities in the future.”
The team also reference their objectively kickass history in saving the 126-year-old King Street venue from developers.
After officially closing as the Sandringham Hotel aka ‘The Sando’ three years ago, the club looked to be turned into a block of units before getting pinched by then-owners of Melbourne’s Corner and Northcote Social Club following a ‘Save the Sando’ campaign.
And while it’s unknown what will happen to the club at this stage, local punters are spitting chips over the news and are keen to try and save it:
The club also plan to go out with a hell of a final few shows, including Methyl Ethel, Camp Cope, Frankie Cosmos, Margaret Glaspy, Cosmo’s Midnight, Holly Throsby, Things Of Stone And Wood, and Turin Brakes.
True to their nature, they’re also keen to showcase some new, final acts:
“We’re looking forward to going out with a bang so if you’d like to put on one final show at Newtown Social Club drop us a line via bookings@cglive.com.au.”
RIP gang, you were one of the greats.
You can read the full post below:
“Dear friends,Three years since saving the venue from the hands of developers, it is with a heavy heart that Newtown Social Club announces it will be shutting its doors on April 23rd 2017.Whilst the live music part of the business was a resounding success, the current regulatory climate in Sydney and the inherent challenges therein have made it unsustainable. We look forward to exploring new opportunities in the future.We’d like to thank our amazing staff, as well all the artists, industry, media and punters that have supported us along the way. We’ve had so many incredible shows and dealt with so many fantastic people over the last few years.We’ve got an exciting run of shows over the coming months including Methyl Ethel, Camp Cope, Frankie Cosmos, Margaret Glaspy, Cosmo’s Midnight, Holly Throsby, Things Of Stone And Wood, Turin Brakes, plus loads more. Head to www.newtownsocialclub.com to grab tickets to our final shows and we hope to see you all over the next few months for a farewell beer.We’re looking forward to going out with a bang so if you’d like to put on one final show at Newtown Social Club drop us a line via bookings@cglive.com.au.Much love,NSC”
Source and photo: Facebook.
